BOOK NEWS
INCITE
Join us on March 5 for an evening of local flavour, with three authors who call Vancouver home: Caroline Adderson, Cynthia Flood, and Zoey Peterson. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENT
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
AWARDS & LISTS
Thomas King has won the $40,000 B.C. National Award for Canadian Non-Fiction for The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America. The jury called it a "wry, iconoclastic and important book that challenges us to think differently about both the past and the future."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/thomas-king-wins-bc-non-fiction-prize-for-the-inconvenient-indian/article17024209/
Elizabeth Gilbert, often lambasted for writing borderline self-help 'women's books', has been nominated for the £30,000 Wellcome book prize for her novel The Signature of All Things. The book has received high praise, telling the story a Victorian "botanical odyssey".
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/25/eat-pray-love-wellcome-book-prize-elizabeth-gilbert
YOUNG READERS
Which bedtime stories are you happy to reread? If your child is prone to saying "again again" after hearing their favourite story, consider this list for more options.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/feb/25/kids-bedtime-books-reread-children
NEWS & FEATURES
As much as we love to read good writing, sometimes a little literary Schadenfreude can be entertaining too. Here's a collection of the worst poems written by great writers.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/books/10651864/The-worst-poems-by-great-writers.html
Harper Lee has settled the federal lawsuit she filed against a museum in her hometown of Monroeville, Alabama. The museum had been using her name, as well as well as the title of her book, To Kill a Mocking Bird, without compensating her.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/harper-lee-settles-to-kill-a-mockingbird-lawsuit-against-museum-1.2543589
People love to complain about how books are often poorly adapted to film. But what happens when it's the other way around? Will Sloan discuss "the endangered art of movie novelization", here:
http://www.randomhouse.ca/hazlitt/feature/endangered-art-movie-novelization
Literary prizes bring great acclaim, but they also make books less popular, says a new study. Scientists who compared 38,817 reader reviews on GoodReads.com with literary prize results found that "winning a prestigious prize in the literary world seems to go hand-in-hand with a particularly sharp reduction in ratings of perceived quality".
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/21/literary-prizes-make-books-less-popular-booker
Kenyan writer Binyavanga Wainaina made headlines a few weeks ago for publicly coming out in the wake of high profile anti-gay reforms in Africa. Now's he's been interviewed by The Guardian, discussing sexuality, writing, and "how to write about Africa."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/16/binyavanga-wainaina-gay-rights-kenya-africa
Sports fans will be happy to hear that Scottish rugby has a new set of literary supporters: wizards. J.K. Rowling has revealed in a new story that "it is considered infra dig for wizards to support any rugby team other than Scotland."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/24/jk-rowling-story-wizards-support-scottish-rugby
There has been a lot of talk these last few months about the rise of women writers. But what about book reviewers? The gender disparity is still atrocious.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/24/business/media/book-review-byline-tally-shows-gender-disparity.html
And, on that note, what has become of the literary bad boy? The New York Times tries to answer that question, here. But really, "Who was badder than the housebound, life-abstemious Emily Dickinson, kicking open the doors of perception with every poem?"
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/23/books/review/whats-become-of-the-so-called-literary-bad-boy.html
BOOKS & WRITERS
The death of Mavis Gallant has brought on a lot of conversation about the place of nationalism in writing, both in terms of physical location and, also, language. Despite being "flawlessly bilingual, Gallant did not mingle English and French; she saw language as a bulwark against the enticing threat of assimilation: "One needs a strong, complete language, fully understood, to anchor one's understanding."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/remembering-mavis-gallant-why-her-urban-stories-have-never-felt-more-relevant/article17037124/
Unsurprisingly, Mavis Gallant is also being remembered for the personal effect she had on people. In this piece for The Rumpus, writer Peter Orner reflects on the Canadian author, and how her writing helped him better understand his dementia-stricken father.
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/lonely-voice-28-all-lives-are-interesting-my-father-and-mavis-gallant/
Peter Orner has also been interviewed about his newest work of fiction, entitled Last Car Over the Sagamore Bridge. The collection's pieces "are all brief, yet contain universes, and each story is a keyhole that invites the reader to place her eye up close and see an entire landscape beyond."
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/the-rumpus-interview-with-peter-orner/
"In a country renowned for its crime writers, Ian Rankin is a standout: His dark, nuanced Inspector Rebus novels about police procedurals have earned them the 'Tartan Noir' handle and brought Edinburgh to life for thousands of readers." He's interviewed in The Globe and Mail, here:
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/what-ian-rankin-has-learned-about-writing-a-good-writer-never-stops-learning/article17036493/
Fellow Scot A.L. Kennedy's new book of short stories might have a simple sounding name (All the Rage), but "don't let these utilitarian titles fool you: Kennedy is one of the most consistently dazzling writers of prose going today, and All the Rage is so dynamic and alive that it might skitter right off your coffee table."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/all-the-rage-an-offbeat-joy-to-read-al-kennedys-propulsive-prose/article16899439/
Gordon Lish, Raymond Carver's "famously hands-on editor" has written a new story of his own, called For My Mother, Reg, Dead in America. You can read it online, here:
http://www.theguardian.com/books/interactive/2014/feb/24/gordon-lish-goings-for-my-mother-reg-dead-in-america
According to Chad Harbach, author of The Art of Fielding, there are two distinct literary cultures in America: "one condensed in New York, the other spread across the diffuse network of provincial college towns that spans from Irvine, Calif., to Austin, Tex., to Ann Arbor, Mich., to Tallahassee, Fla." His new book, MFA vs. NYC, tackles the 'can creative writing be taught' debate.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/26/books/mfa-vs-nyc-the-two-cultures-of-american-fiction.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 5:00pm (corrected time). Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
TALKING STICK FESTIVAL: WHY INDIGENOUS LITERATURE MATTERS
Daniel Heath Justice will give a public lecture on the relevance of reading works by Aboriginal writers in an age of Idle No More. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm. Cost: pay what you can. SFU Harbour Centre room 1400. More information at fullcircle.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poet/singer/artist David Campbell. Poetry and music: A celebration. Thursday, Feb 27, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. More information at
www.pandorascollective.com.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
TALKING STICK FESTIVAL: NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
MISSION WRITERS' AND READERS' FESTIVAL
Workshops, readings, performances, keynote and networking. March 1, 10am-4pm. @UFV Mission Campus, Heritage Park Centre 33700 Prentis Avenue, Mission BC V2V 7B1. For registration and more information go to:
http://www.lifetimelearningcentre.org/events/7th-annual-writers-and-readers-festival/.
TALKING STICK FESTIVAL: INTRODUCTION TO INDIGENOUS SCIENCE FICTION
Dr. Grace M. Dillon, Anishinaabe scholar, Associate Professor at Portland State University and Editor of the anthology, Walking The Clouds, will give an key-note lecture on the field of Indigenous Science Fiction. Saturday, March 1 at 1:15pm. Cost: pay what you can. Labatt Hall, SFU Harbour Centre. More information at fullcircle.ca.
TALKING STICK FESTIVAL: TURTLE ISLAND READS
A lively and enlightening debate on the many merits of three featured books: Nobody Cries at Bingo by Dawn Dumont, Ajjiit by Sean Tinsley and Rachel A. Qitsualik, and Flight by Sherman Alexie. Saturday, March 1 at 2:30pm, free. Labatt Hall, SFU Harbour Centre. More information at fullcircle.ca.
AUTHORS AMONG US
Discussion and reading to the theme of "love and loss" featuring David Slater, Tamara Veitch and Rene DeFazio, and Renee Aklikar. Wednesday, March 5 at 7:00pm. Guildford Library, 15105-105 Ave., Surrey. More information at surreylibraries.ca.
ART, MUSIC AND POETRY
A night of poetry inspired by Brush and Wire, an exhibit by Karen Brumelle and Joanne Waters. Featured poets: Daniela Elza, Chelsea Comeau, Bonnie Nish, Carl Leggo, Celeste Snowber, Ali Denno, and Dennis E. Bolen. Music by Jenn Bojm. March 6, 7pm-9 pm @ the Jewish Community Centre Gallery, 950 41st Ave W, Vancouver, free.
PIERRE SAMSON
Meet with the writer Pierre Samson, author of "La maison des pluies". Friday, March 7 at 5:30pm. Alliance Francaise Auditorium, Alliance Francaise, 6161 Cambie Street, Vancouver. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THEY WENT WHISTLING
In celebration of International Women's Day, authors Sylvia Taylor, Kate Braid, Jane Hall and Sue Doro read from their memoirs. Saturday, March 8 at 2:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
SERENDIPITY: CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN A DIGITAL AGE
From practical advice on using literature-based apps with children to learning how authors and illustrators are using social media and electronic publishing, Serendipity 2014 is for educators, librarians, researchers and literature lovers looking to the future of books for young people. Presenters include Paul Zelinsky, Arthur Slade, John Schumacher, Travis Jonker, Tim Federle, and Hadley Dyer. Saturday, March 8, 2014. For registration and information, go to www.vclr.ca.
Upcoming
DEAD POETS READING SERIES
Five poets/readers/poetry-lovers/writers with extensive public reading experience read poems from one of their favourite dead poets' work. Sunday, March 9 at 3:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
FOREST & FJORD
A photographic tour of the pictographs (rock art) of Indian Arm will be conducted by author Ralph Drew who has studied these archaeological sites for his recently published book. Wednesday, March 12 at 7:00pm, free. Special collections reading room, level 7, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poets Judith Copithorne and Jordan Abel plus open mic. Wednesday, March 12, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. Sign up for open mic at 7 pm. More
information at www.pandorascollective.com.
AUTHORS NISH & NEALE
A reading of Pandora's Collective Outreach Society works pertaining to autobiographical material. Monday, March 17 at 7:00pm, free. Meeting room, level 3, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
LUNCH POEMS @ SFU
Peter Culley and Maxine Gadd featured at March 19 "Lunch Poems at SFU." Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. Lunch Poems hosts well-known and up-and-coming poets on the third Wednesday of every month except July and August. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
PLAY CHTHONICS: NEW CANADIAN READINGS
Readings by Natalie Simpson and Jonathan Ball. Wednesday, March 19 at 5:00pm. Piano Lounge, Green College, 6201 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
POST-PHOTOGRAPHY
Join photographer Evan Lee and novelist Healther Jessup for a conversation about Evan's work and influences, as well as beauty, strangeness, and what it's like to manipulate the flames of a forest fire. Wednesday, March 19 at 4:00pm, free. Student Engagement Centre, C Building, Langara. More information at langara.bc.ca/english-forum.
WOMEN AND WAR IN AFGHANISTAN
Ann Jones, author of Kabul in Winter and They Were Soldiers, discusses the prospects for women in Afghanistan. March 20 at 5:00 pm. Allard Hall, 1822 East Mall, UBC. More information at www.greencollege.ubc.ca.
FIONA TINWEI LAM
An informal family-oriented reading for children and adults by author Fiona Tinwei Lam from her debut children's picture book, The Rainbow Rocket. Sunday, March 23 at 2:00pm, free. Renfrew Meeting room, Renfrew Branch, 2969 22nd Ave. E. More information at vpl.ca.
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Book News Vol. 8 No. 51
BOOK NEWS
INCITE
Join us on March 5 for an evening of local flavour, with three authors who call Vancouver home: Caroline Adderson, Cynthia Flood, and Zoey Peterson. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENT
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
AWARDS & LISTS
10 graphic novels and 10 Web comics are up for Slate's second annual comics prize. The winners will be announced on March 7th. Check out the shortlist, here:
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/cartoonist_studio_prize_2013_center_for_cartoon_studies_and_slate_comics.html
YOUNG READERS
A new crop of young adult novels have been reviewed by the Globe and Mail. From the Demon Dentist to Not Your Ordinary Wolf Girl, these books are guaranteed to "keep your kids well-read."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/keep-your-kids-well-read-with-these-latest-young-adult-novels/article16731689/
NEWS & FEATURES
Mavis Gallant, one of Canada's most distinguished literary figures, has died. Though born in Canada, her career was truly international. Her prolific output included two novels, a play, a collection of journalism and essays, and nine volumes of short stories.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/writer-mavis-gallant-dies-at-age-91/article16930775/
Conservatives in India have pledged to purge bookshelves and schools of books they claim are abusive to Hindusism, resulting in the withdrawal of Penguin's new book The Hindus: An Alternative History. Many Indian artists and intellectuals are concerned, claiming that Penguin's move exemplifies "the growing power of bullying self-appointed censors" displaying "a Victorian hangover with a Taliban temperament."
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/feb/13/indian-conservatives-penguin-hindus-book
25 year post-Fatwa, Salman Rushdie now says "I wish I'd written a more critical book." Despite this fact, he still isn't sure that the struggle over The Satanic Verses has actually ended. "The book is still in print and the author wasn't suppressed so it was a victory in that sense. But the fear and menaces have grown."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/feb/14/satanic-verses-sentence-fatwa-free-speech-writers
With all this political discourse still heavily permeating literature, the following article may come as a surprise to some. This week, the New Yorker asks: "is the News replacing literature?"
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/has-the-new-replaced-literature.html
Valentine's Day has come and gone, but you still might enjoy this Guardian article on the top 10 difficult love stories in literature. The multi-lingual list includes works by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Haruki Murakami and Helen Fielding.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/12/top-10-difficult-love-stories-valentines-graeme-simsion
English literature is full of rain and flooding, "from the April showers that begin The Canterbury Tales to the Shakespearean storms" and the "sodden Victorian classics". While you're hiding from Vancouver's own cold February rains, why not check out this piece on "how every era creates its own kind of downpour?"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/14/english-literature-rain-flooding
Speaking of different eras, Wes Anderson's new film, Grand Budapest Hotel, has been receiving much attention for its unique look into not-so-distant European history. But as Anderson himself says, "it's more or less plagiarism". The movie was inspired by the writing of Stefan Zweig, a writer who is bound to be rediscovered in a North America that never quite got him in the first place.
http://flavorwire.com/437455/wes-andersons-grand-budapest-hotel-promises-to-make-americans-rediscover-the-books-of-stefan-zweig/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Carolyn Forché made her mark as a poet when she wrote The Country Between Us, based on her experiences observing the civil war in El Salvador. She insists her work is not political, however, but the "poetry of witness". Now, she's taken this idea to a new length, editing and releasing an anthology called The Poetry of Witness: The English Tradition, 1500-2001.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/poetry-in-extremis.html
If you're a fan of Alberto Manguel, you'll probably enjoy this review he's written for Adam Foulds' war novel, In the Wolf's Mouth. A chronicle of the Allied liberation of Italy, the novel follows the story of an English security officer and an American soldier ("from Little Italy not big Italy"), who "clumsily grope their way from Sicily northwards, attempting to push back fascist resistance."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/15/wolfs-mouth-adam-foulds-review
While the 1930s and 40s were concerned with that struggle against facism, the 20s were a time of excess, and in the case of many women, liberation. Judith Mackrell's new book Flappers: Six Women of a Dangerous Generation follows the lives of six of these liberated women, each of whom had the nerve and desire to live differently.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/16/books/review/flappers-and-careless-people.html
Bringing history to life can be difficult, demanding "a different alchemy, the rigor of the historian mixed with the imaginative chutzpah of the novelist." Medieval scholar Bruce Holsinger tries to accomplish just that in his first novel, A Burnable Book, set in 1385 England.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/16/books/review/a-burnable-book-by-bruce-holsinger.html
From the large scale to the very small, here are three books worth reading from the world of Canadian small press: Blood, Marriage, Wine and Glitter, by S. Bear Bergman (about the power of family, albeit an untraditional one); Juanita Wildrose: My True Life, by Susan Downe (a "fictional memoir"); and The City Still Breathing, by Matthew Heiti (a "dark but loving ode to 1980s Sudbury").
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/three-books-worth-reading-from-the-world-of-canadian-small-press/article16899085/
On an even more local level, the Vancouver Sun has engaged in conversation with the five writers currently in the running for the B.C. Book Award. Check out the discussion with Carolyn Abraham, Thomas King, Graeme Smith, J.B. McKinnon and Margaret MacMillan, here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/conversation+with+writers+whose+books+Book+Award/9508852/story.html
The canoe has long been a symbol of Canadian identity, used by the voyageurs, common folks on summer vacation, artistic visionaries like Tom Tomson, and even Pierre Trudeau, who believed that the canoe immersed him in the essence of Canada. Two new books have set out to discuss (and challenge) the place of the canoe in our national identity: Misao Dean's Inheriting a Canoe Paddle, and Bruce Erickson's Canoe Nation.
http://www.geist.com/fact/columns/magical-thinking/
If you're one of those people who believes that images speak louder than words, you might enjoy Kevin Thomas' comic strip review of Ruth Ozeki's A Tale for the Time Being. This may win the prize for shortest book review of the year!
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/horn-reviews-a-tale-for-the-time-being/
Novelist Katie Crouch has been writing a series for The Rumpus called "Missed", about authors she believes deserve more recognition. This week's subject is Jill McCorkle, whom Crouch discovered when she was pregnant, unhappy, wrestling with the specter of addiction, and finally able to laugh, despite it all.
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/missed-3-jill-mccorkle-and-the-bourbon-hunt/
Jesse Donaldson's new book, This Day in Vancouver, is a story of our city's 127 year history, told one day at a time. This month, with the author's permission, The Tyee is highlighting five memorable moments that occurred in past Februaries.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2014/02/01/Month-of-Van-History/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHRISTINA JOHNSON-DEAN
Local author talks about her new book The Life and Art of Edythe Hembroff-Schleicher. Thursday, February 20 at 7:00pm, free but register at 250-475-6100. Emily Carr branch, Victoria Public Library, 101-3521 Blanshard St. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
VERITY
Author Marian Keen launches her latest novel for teens. Special guests include Devon Boorman and the CKNW Orphans' Fund Pink Shirt Day Anti-Bullying Campaign. Music, refreshments, and live demonstration of sword play. Friday, February 21 at 6:00pm. Tickets: adults ($10) / students (free). Academie Duello, 412 West Hastings Street. Details and registration here, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/launch-of-new-book-verity-supports-pink-shirt-day-tickets-10361749271.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
SFU NOONHOUR READING SERIES
Poets Evelyn Lau and Jamie Reid read from their work. Thursday, February 27 at 12:30pm, free. Bennett Library Special Collections/Rare Books (Room 7100), Bennett Library, SFU Burnaby. For more info, phone 778-782-6676.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 5:00pm (corrected time). Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poet/singer/artist David Campbell. Poetry and music: A celebration. Thursday, Feb 27, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. More information at
www.pandorascollective.com.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
Upcoming
MISSION WRITERS' AND READERS' FESTIVAL
Workshops, readings, performances, keynote and networking. March 1, 10am-4pm. @UFV Mission Campus, Heritage Park Centre 33700 Prentis Avenue, Mission BC V2V 7B1. For registration and more information go to:
http://www.lifetimelearningcentre.org/events/7th-annual-writers-and-readers-festival/.
ART, MUSIC AND POETRY
A night of poetry inspired by Brush and Wire, an exhibit by Karen Brumelle and Joanne Waters. Featured poets: Daniela Elza, Chelsea Comeau, Bonnie Nish, Carl Leggo, Celeste Snowber, Ali Denno, and Dennis E. Bolen. Music by Jenn Bojm. March 6, 7pm-9 pm @ the Jewish Community Centre Gallery, 950 41st Ave W, Vancouver, free.
PIERRE SAMSON
Meet with the writer Pierre Samson, author of "La maison des pluies". Friday, March 7 at 5:30pm. Alliance Francaise Auditorium, Alliance Francaise, 6161 Cambie Street, Vancouver. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THEY WENT WHISTLING
In celebration of International Women's Day, authors Sylvia Taylor, Kate Braid, Jane Hall and Sue Doro read from their memoirs. Saturday, March 8 at 2:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
SERENDIPITY: CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN A DIGITAL AGE
From practical advice on using literature-based apps with children to learning how authors and illustrators are using social media and electronic publishing, Serendipity 2014 is for educators, librarians, researchers and literature lovers looking to the future of books for young people. Presenters include Paul Zelinsky, Arthur Slade, John Schumacher, Travis Jonker, Tim Federle, and Hadley Dyer. Saturday, March 8, 2014. For registration and information, go to www.vclr.ca.
INCITE
Join us on March 5 for an evening of local flavour, with three authors who call Vancouver home: Caroline Adderson, Cynthia Flood, and Zoey Peterson. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENT
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
AWARDS & LISTS
10 graphic novels and 10 Web comics are up for Slate's second annual comics prize. The winners will be announced on March 7th. Check out the shortlist, here:
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/cartoonist_studio_prize_2013_center_for_cartoon_studies_and_slate_comics.html
YOUNG READERS
A new crop of young adult novels have been reviewed by the Globe and Mail. From the Demon Dentist to Not Your Ordinary Wolf Girl, these books are guaranteed to "keep your kids well-read."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/keep-your-kids-well-read-with-these-latest-young-adult-novels/article16731689/
NEWS & FEATURES
Mavis Gallant, one of Canada's most distinguished literary figures, has died. Though born in Canada, her career was truly international. Her prolific output included two novels, a play, a collection of journalism and essays, and nine volumes of short stories.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/writer-mavis-gallant-dies-at-age-91/article16930775/
Conservatives in India have pledged to purge bookshelves and schools of books they claim are abusive to Hindusism, resulting in the withdrawal of Penguin's new book The Hindus: An Alternative History. Many Indian artists and intellectuals are concerned, claiming that Penguin's move exemplifies "the growing power of bullying self-appointed censors" displaying "a Victorian hangover with a Taliban temperament."
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/feb/13/indian-conservatives-penguin-hindus-book
25 year post-Fatwa, Salman Rushdie now says "I wish I'd written a more critical book." Despite this fact, he still isn't sure that the struggle over The Satanic Verses has actually ended. "The book is still in print and the author wasn't suppressed so it was a victory in that sense. But the fear and menaces have grown."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2014/feb/14/satanic-verses-sentence-fatwa-free-speech-writers
With all this political discourse still heavily permeating literature, the following article may come as a surprise to some. This week, the New Yorker asks: "is the News replacing literature?"
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/has-the-new-replaced-literature.html
Valentine's Day has come and gone, but you still might enjoy this Guardian article on the top 10 difficult love stories in literature. The multi-lingual list includes works by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Haruki Murakami and Helen Fielding.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/12/top-10-difficult-love-stories-valentines-graeme-simsion
English literature is full of rain and flooding, "from the April showers that begin The Canterbury Tales to the Shakespearean storms" and the "sodden Victorian classics". While you're hiding from Vancouver's own cold February rains, why not check out this piece on "how every era creates its own kind of downpour?"
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/14/english-literature-rain-flooding
Speaking of different eras, Wes Anderson's new film, Grand Budapest Hotel, has been receiving much attention for its unique look into not-so-distant European history. But as Anderson himself says, "it's more or less plagiarism". The movie was inspired by the writing of Stefan Zweig, a writer who is bound to be rediscovered in a North America that never quite got him in the first place.
http://flavorwire.com/437455/wes-andersons-grand-budapest-hotel-promises-to-make-americans-rediscover-the-books-of-stefan-zweig/
BOOKS & WRITERS
Carolyn Forché made her mark as a poet when she wrote The Country Between Us, based on her experiences observing the civil war in El Salvador. She insists her work is not political, however, but the "poetry of witness". Now, she's taken this idea to a new length, editing and releasing an anthology called The Poetry of Witness: The English Tradition, 1500-2001.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/poetry-in-extremis.html
If you're a fan of Alberto Manguel, you'll probably enjoy this review he's written for Adam Foulds' war novel, In the Wolf's Mouth. A chronicle of the Allied liberation of Italy, the novel follows the story of an English security officer and an American soldier ("from Little Italy not big Italy"), who "clumsily grope their way from Sicily northwards, attempting to push back fascist resistance."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/15/wolfs-mouth-adam-foulds-review
While the 1930s and 40s were concerned with that struggle against facism, the 20s were a time of excess, and in the case of many women, liberation. Judith Mackrell's new book Flappers: Six Women of a Dangerous Generation follows the lives of six of these liberated women, each of whom had the nerve and desire to live differently.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/16/books/review/flappers-and-careless-people.html
Bringing history to life can be difficult, demanding "a different alchemy, the rigor of the historian mixed with the imaginative chutzpah of the novelist." Medieval scholar Bruce Holsinger tries to accomplish just that in his first novel, A Burnable Book, set in 1385 England.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/16/books/review/a-burnable-book-by-bruce-holsinger.html
From the large scale to the very small, here are three books worth reading from the world of Canadian small press: Blood, Marriage, Wine and Glitter, by S. Bear Bergman (about the power of family, albeit an untraditional one); Juanita Wildrose: My True Life, by Susan Downe (a "fictional memoir"); and The City Still Breathing, by Matthew Heiti (a "dark but loving ode to 1980s Sudbury").
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/three-books-worth-reading-from-the-world-of-canadian-small-press/article16899085/
On an even more local level, the Vancouver Sun has engaged in conversation with the five writers currently in the running for the B.C. Book Award. Check out the discussion with Carolyn Abraham, Thomas King, Graeme Smith, J.B. McKinnon and Margaret MacMillan, here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/books/conversation+with+writers+whose+books+Book+Award/9508852/story.html
The canoe has long been a symbol of Canadian identity, used by the voyageurs, common folks on summer vacation, artistic visionaries like Tom Tomson, and even Pierre Trudeau, who believed that the canoe immersed him in the essence of Canada. Two new books have set out to discuss (and challenge) the place of the canoe in our national identity: Misao Dean's Inheriting a Canoe Paddle, and Bruce Erickson's Canoe Nation.
http://www.geist.com/fact/columns/magical-thinking/
If you're one of those people who believes that images speak louder than words, you might enjoy Kevin Thomas' comic strip review of Ruth Ozeki's A Tale for the Time Being. This may win the prize for shortest book review of the year!
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/horn-reviews-a-tale-for-the-time-being/
Novelist Katie Crouch has been writing a series for The Rumpus called "Missed", about authors she believes deserve more recognition. This week's subject is Jill McCorkle, whom Crouch discovered when she was pregnant, unhappy, wrestling with the specter of addiction, and finally able to laugh, despite it all.
http://therumpus.net/2014/02/missed-3-jill-mccorkle-and-the-bourbon-hunt/
Jesse Donaldson's new book, This Day in Vancouver, is a story of our city's 127 year history, told one day at a time. This month, with the author's permission, The Tyee is highlighting five memorable moments that occurred in past Februaries.
http://thetyee.ca/Books/2014/02/01/Month-of-Van-History/
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHRISTINA JOHNSON-DEAN
Local author talks about her new book The Life and Art of Edythe Hembroff-Schleicher. Thursday, February 20 at 7:00pm, free but register at 250-475-6100. Emily Carr branch, Victoria Public Library, 101-3521 Blanshard St. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
VERITY
Author Marian Keen launches her latest novel for teens. Special guests include Devon Boorman and the CKNW Orphans' Fund Pink Shirt Day Anti-Bullying Campaign. Music, refreshments, and live demonstration of sword play. Friday, February 21 at 6:00pm. Tickets: adults ($10) / students (free). Academie Duello, 412 West Hastings Street. Details and registration here, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/launch-of-new-book-verity-supports-pink-shirt-day-tickets-10361749271.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
SFU NOONHOUR READING SERIES
Poets Evelyn Lau and Jamie Reid read from their work. Thursday, February 27 at 12:30pm, free. Bennett Library Special Collections/Rare Books (Room 7100), Bennett Library, SFU Burnaby. For more info, phone 778-782-6676.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 5:00pm (corrected time). Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poet/singer/artist David Campbell. Poetry and music: A celebration. Thursday, Feb 27, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. More information at
www.pandorascollective.com.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
Upcoming
MISSION WRITERS' AND READERS' FESTIVAL
Workshops, readings, performances, keynote and networking. March 1, 10am-4pm. @UFV Mission Campus, Heritage Park Centre 33700 Prentis Avenue, Mission BC V2V 7B1. For registration and more information go to:
http://www.lifetimelearningcentre.org/events/7th-annual-writers-and-readers-festival/.
ART, MUSIC AND POETRY
A night of poetry inspired by Brush and Wire, an exhibit by Karen Brumelle and Joanne Waters. Featured poets: Daniela Elza, Chelsea Comeau, Bonnie Nish, Carl Leggo, Celeste Snowber, Ali Denno, and Dennis E. Bolen. Music by Jenn Bojm. March 6, 7pm-9 pm @ the Jewish Community Centre Gallery, 950 41st Ave W, Vancouver, free.
PIERRE SAMSON
Meet with the writer Pierre Samson, author of "La maison des pluies". Friday, March 7 at 5:30pm. Alliance Francaise Auditorium, Alliance Francaise, 6161 Cambie Street, Vancouver. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THEY WENT WHISTLING
In celebration of International Women's Day, authors Sylvia Taylor, Kate Braid, Jane Hall and Sue Doro read from their memoirs. Saturday, March 8 at 2:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
SERENDIPITY: CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN A DIGITAL AGE
From practical advice on using literature-based apps with children to learning how authors and illustrators are using social media and electronic publishing, Serendipity 2014 is for educators, librarians, researchers and literature lovers looking to the future of books for young people. Presenters include Paul Zelinsky, Arthur Slade, John Schumacher, Travis Jonker, Tim Federle, and Hadley Dyer. Saturday, March 8, 2014. For registration and information, go to www.vclr.ca.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Book News Vol. 8 No. 50
BOOK NEWS
INCITE
Join us on February 19 for an evening of new fiction and non-fiction with Catherine Bush, Adrianne Harun and Andrew Steinmetz. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENT
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Folio Prize has been announced. Among the eight contenders is Canada's own Anne Carson, who appeared at the Vancouver Writers Fest last year. This brand new award is being given to an English language book of fiction published in the UK by an author from any country.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/gallery/2014/feb/11/folio-prize-shortlist-in-pictures
Vancouver Writers Fest author Eric Schlosser has been named a finalist for this year's Lionel Gelber Prize. Founded in 1989 by the Canadian diplomat of the same name, the $15,000 prize honours a "non-fiction book in English on foreign affairs that seeks to deepen public debate on significant international issues."
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/celebrity/Eric+Schlosser+among+finalists+Canadian+founded/9491202/story.html
YOUNG READERS
If you know any children who are currently enjoying watching the Winter Olympics, you might want to direct them to this list. The Guardian's 'Book Doctor' has prescribed the best sports books for children over the age of 11, stories "which capture the thrill of competitive sport."
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2014/feb/10/childrens-books-about-sport-ice-skating
NEWS & FEATURES
The Writers' Trust of Canada has announced its upcoming Berton House writers-in-residence. The residency welcomes writers to spend three months at the childhood home of Pierre Berton, in Dawson City, Yukon.
http://www.quillandquire.com/blog/index.php/book-news/the-writers-trust-of-canada-announces-next-berton-house-writers-in-residence/
A German college student named Gregor Weichbrodt has created a 45-page manual (driving directions, thanks to Google Maps) for all the spots mentioned in Jack Kerouac's On the Road. Called On the Road for 17,527 Miles, you can download it for free as an ebook.
http://www.openculture.com/2014/02/jack-kerouacs-on-the-road-turned-into-google-driving-directions.html
Before Haruki Murakami was a writer, he was a jazz head–first an appreciator, and then the owner of a Jazz club, called Peter Cat, in Tokyo. In this article for Harper's Magazine, Aaron Gilbreath goes in search of Murakami's club, as well as the jazz that influenced his development as a writer.
http://harpers.org/blog/2014/02/nothing-is-strange/
A new program to improve children's reading skills (and help animals at the same time) has made headlines around the world, thanks to a recent (viral) photo of a young boy reading Robert Munsch's Love You Forever to a cat. According to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, the program helps kids improve their reading skills and "cats find the rhythmic sound of a voice very comforting and soothing."
http://www.quillandquire.com/blog/index.php/book-culture/photo-of-kid-reading-robert-munsch-to-shelter-cat-goes-viral/
Despite the fact that he was famously economical with his words, Ernest Hemingway was apparently also a hoarder. A trove of some 2,500 documents from his Cuban villa (including diaries, letters, tickets to bullfights and every Christmas card he ever received) has now been digitized and made available online.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/11/books/batch-of-hemingway-ephemera-from-cuba-is-digitized.html
It's easy to blame television and film for the decline of reading. Sometimes, however, they have the exact opposite effect! The Library of America ("a nonprofit publisher dedicated to publishing, and keeping in print, authoritative editions of America's best and most significant writing") has seen a rise in the sales of many classics this year, including The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (thanks to a Ben Stiller film), and On the Road, whose sales have jumped more than 30%!
http://publishingperspectives.com/2014/02/tv-and-film-boost-sales-of-library-of-america-classics/
2013 Festival Writer George Packer takes a provocative look at the changes in publishing and book retailing.
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2014/02/17/140217fa_fact_packer?currentPage=all
A soon-to-be-auctioned letter of J.R.R. Tolkien's has revealed a fascinating literary argument: apparently W.H. Auden tried very hard to persuade the famous fantasist to drop the romance between Aragorn and Arwen from the storyline of The Lord of the Rings. "This letter, which has never been published before, sheds a fascinating light on Tolkien's working methods and the devotion to detail which he lavished on the imaginary worlds of his books."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/11/jrr-tolkien-advised-wh-auden-lord-of-the-rings
BOOKS & WRITERS
Ivan Coyote has been a Vancouver Writers Fest fixture for many years. She discusses her beginnings as an artist, her work in schools, and her new book (and multi-media production), Gender Failure, here:
http://cwila.com/wordpress/an-interview-with-ivan-coyote/
"Aside from the poetry of Russell Thornton, it's seldom—too seldom—that we see literature that stakes out North Vancouver as its inspiration and terrain. This fact alone makes The November Optimist, David Zieroth's story (or novella, or whatever it should be called) all the more remarkable." Check out the Georgia Straight's review here:
http://www.straight.com/life/579676/david-zieroths-november-optimist-bravura-performance
If the "dynamics of sociopolitical and domestic toxicity and inebriation" and "the soul-crushing emptiness of the unexamined suburban life (and yet the inspirations of love and natural beauty within the same landscape)" intrigue you, you might be curious to read this review of Dennis E. Bolen's Black Liquor, set in 1970s Vancouver Island.
http://www.straight.com/life/579671/dennis-e-bolens-black-liquor-captures-west-coast-working-class-life
David Grossman has written a new book, Falling Out of Time, as a slender companion piece to his extraordinary novel To the End of the Land. "But while To the End of the Land describes tormented hope, Falling Out of Time permits itself the freedom of despair...It reads like a postscript but that, after all, is what an elegy is."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/10/falling-time-david-grossman-review
In 2010, American poet Tarfia Faizullah went to Bangladesh to interview survivors of rape, a military tactic used during the 1971 Liberation War. Her collection Seam, based upon these interviews, has already won the Crab Orchard Series in Poetry First Book Award, and will be published on March 6th. Check out her interview with the Paris Review, here:
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2014/02/10/everything-is-near-and-unforgotten-an-interview-with-tarfia-faizullah/
Who's your favourite memoirist? According to Dan Kois (writing for Slate), it's "an ordinary middle-class Quebecer who draws comics." That man is Michel Ragabliati, who, despite not leading an extraordinary life, does something very few other memoirists achieve: makes you look inside your own experiences to find the emotional congruencies between your life and his.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/michel_rabagliati_s_cartoon_memoirs_paul_joins_the_scouts_and_the_paul_books.html
A passage from Alice Munro's Friend of My Youth has been featured in this month's 'By Heart' section of The Atlantic (formerly Atlantic Monthly) magazine. In his essay for the series, Kyle Minor contests Munro's popular reputation as a mere chronicler of bounded, fiercely quiet lives.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/02/alice-munros-writerly-wisdom-short-stories-arent-small-stories/283744
COMMUNITY EVENTS
AN EVENING WITH SOME OF VANCOUVER'S FAVOURITE QUEER WRITERS
Featuring Amber Dawn, Brett Josef Grubisic, Leah Horlick, Lydia Kwa, Alex Leslie, Emilia Nielsen and Andrea Routley with MC Carellin Brooks. Friday, February 14 at 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverobserver.com.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Celebration of Black History Month with Roger Blenman, Rosario Aria Naranjo, Diane Laloge and many more. Hosted by Ariadne Sawyer and Kagan Goh. Saturday, February 15 at 3:00pm, free. Britannia Community Centre, 1661 Napier St. More information at worldpoetry.ca.
LOVE HANGOVER
Storytelling series featuring stories of love and heartbreak, crushes and breakups, Tinder and long-distance lovers, missed connections and cheating jerks. Saturday, February 15 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $25 plus service charges. Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings, Vancouver. More information at liveatrickshaw.com.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Dennis E. Bolen, Brad Cran, Candice James with host Sho Wiley. February 16 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
PLAYING WITH FIRE
Storytelling featuring spoken word champion Bryant Ross and locals Philomena Jordan, Erin Graham and Rita Taylor. Sunday, February 16 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6. 1805 Larch, Vancouver. More information at vancouverstorytellers.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND
An evening of readings of both brand new and established local authors in a variety of genres from poetry to short stories to novels. Monday, February 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Poet Andrea McKenzie Raine reads from her debut novel, Turnstiles. Tuesday, February 18 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings at Boundary. More information at bwscafe@gmail.com.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Ray Hsu and Joanne Arnott featured at Feb 19 Lunch Poems at SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SAY WHA?
Funny people reading from bad books featuring Lauren McGibbon, Stacie Steadman, Megan Phillips and Jeff Gladstone. Wednesday, February 19 at 8:00pm. Cost: $5-10. Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at sarabynoe.com/shows/say-wha.
CHRISTINA JOHNSON-DEAN
Local author talks about her new book The Life and Art of Edythe hembroff-Schleicher. Thursday, February 20 at 7:00pm, free but register at 250-475-6100. Emily Carr branch, Victoria Public Library, 101-3521 Blanshard St. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
Upcoming
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 5:00pm (corrected time). Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poet/singer/artist David Campbell. Poetry and music: A celebration. Thursday, Feb 27, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. More information at
www.pandorascollective.com.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
INCITE
Join us on February 19 for an evening of new fiction and non-fiction with Catherine Bush, Adrianne Harun and Andrew Steinmetz. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENT
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Folio Prize has been announced. Among the eight contenders is Canada's own Anne Carson, who appeared at the Vancouver Writers Fest last year. This brand new award is being given to an English language book of fiction published in the UK by an author from any country.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/gallery/2014/feb/11/folio-prize-shortlist-in-pictures
Vancouver Writers Fest author Eric Schlosser has been named a finalist for this year's Lionel Gelber Prize. Founded in 1989 by the Canadian diplomat of the same name, the $15,000 prize honours a "non-fiction book in English on foreign affairs that seeks to deepen public debate on significant international issues."
http://www.vancouversun.com/entertainment/celebrity/Eric+Schlosser+among+finalists+Canadian+founded/9491202/story.html
YOUNG READERS
If you know any children who are currently enjoying watching the Winter Olympics, you might want to direct them to this list. The Guardian's 'Book Doctor' has prescribed the best sports books for children over the age of 11, stories "which capture the thrill of competitive sport."
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2014/feb/10/childrens-books-about-sport-ice-skating
NEWS & FEATURES
The Writers' Trust of Canada has announced its upcoming Berton House writers-in-residence. The residency welcomes writers to spend three months at the childhood home of Pierre Berton, in Dawson City, Yukon.
http://www.quillandquire.com/blog/index.php/book-news/the-writers-trust-of-canada-announces-next-berton-house-writers-in-residence/
A German college student named Gregor Weichbrodt has created a 45-page manual (driving directions, thanks to Google Maps) for all the spots mentioned in Jack Kerouac's On the Road. Called On the Road for 17,527 Miles, you can download it for free as an ebook.
http://www.openculture.com/2014/02/jack-kerouacs-on-the-road-turned-into-google-driving-directions.html
Before Haruki Murakami was a writer, he was a jazz head–first an appreciator, and then the owner of a Jazz club, called Peter Cat, in Tokyo. In this article for Harper's Magazine, Aaron Gilbreath goes in search of Murakami's club, as well as the jazz that influenced his development as a writer.
http://harpers.org/blog/2014/02/nothing-is-strange/
A new program to improve children's reading skills (and help animals at the same time) has made headlines around the world, thanks to a recent (viral) photo of a young boy reading Robert Munsch's Love You Forever to a cat. According to the Animal Rescue League of Berks County, the program helps kids improve their reading skills and "cats find the rhythmic sound of a voice very comforting and soothing."
http://www.quillandquire.com/blog/index.php/book-culture/photo-of-kid-reading-robert-munsch-to-shelter-cat-goes-viral/
Despite the fact that he was famously economical with his words, Ernest Hemingway was apparently also a hoarder. A trove of some 2,500 documents from his Cuban villa (including diaries, letters, tickets to bullfights and every Christmas card he ever received) has now been digitized and made available online.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/11/books/batch-of-hemingway-ephemera-from-cuba-is-digitized.html
It's easy to blame television and film for the decline of reading. Sometimes, however, they have the exact opposite effect! The Library of America ("a nonprofit publisher dedicated to publishing, and keeping in print, authoritative editions of America's best and most significant writing") has seen a rise in the sales of many classics this year, including The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (thanks to a Ben Stiller film), and On the Road, whose sales have jumped more than 30%!
http://publishingperspectives.com/2014/02/tv-and-film-boost-sales-of-library-of-america-classics/
2013 Festival Writer George Packer takes a provocative look at the changes in publishing and book retailing.
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2014/02/17/140217fa_fact_packer?currentPage=all
A soon-to-be-auctioned letter of J.R.R. Tolkien's has revealed a fascinating literary argument: apparently W.H. Auden tried very hard to persuade the famous fantasist to drop the romance between Aragorn and Arwen from the storyline of The Lord of the Rings. "This letter, which has never been published before, sheds a fascinating light on Tolkien's working methods and the devotion to detail which he lavished on the imaginary worlds of his books."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/11/jrr-tolkien-advised-wh-auden-lord-of-the-rings
BOOKS & WRITERS
Ivan Coyote has been a Vancouver Writers Fest fixture for many years. She discusses her beginnings as an artist, her work in schools, and her new book (and multi-media production), Gender Failure, here:
http://cwila.com/wordpress/an-interview-with-ivan-coyote/
"Aside from the poetry of Russell Thornton, it's seldom—too seldom—that we see literature that stakes out North Vancouver as its inspiration and terrain. This fact alone makes The November Optimist, David Zieroth's story (or novella, or whatever it should be called) all the more remarkable." Check out the Georgia Straight's review here:
http://www.straight.com/life/579676/david-zieroths-november-optimist-bravura-performance
If the "dynamics of sociopolitical and domestic toxicity and inebriation" and "the soul-crushing emptiness of the unexamined suburban life (and yet the inspirations of love and natural beauty within the same landscape)" intrigue you, you might be curious to read this review of Dennis E. Bolen's Black Liquor, set in 1970s Vancouver Island.
http://www.straight.com/life/579671/dennis-e-bolens-black-liquor-captures-west-coast-working-class-life
David Grossman has written a new book, Falling Out of Time, as a slender companion piece to his extraordinary novel To the End of the Land. "But while To the End of the Land describes tormented hope, Falling Out of Time permits itself the freedom of despair...It reads like a postscript but that, after all, is what an elegy is."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/10/falling-time-david-grossman-review
In 2010, American poet Tarfia Faizullah went to Bangladesh to interview survivors of rape, a military tactic used during the 1971 Liberation War. Her collection Seam, based upon these interviews, has already won the Crab Orchard Series in Poetry First Book Award, and will be published on March 6th. Check out her interview with the Paris Review, here:
http://www.theparisreview.org/blog/2014/02/10/everything-is-near-and-unforgotten-an-interview-with-tarfia-faizullah/
Who's your favourite memoirist? According to Dan Kois (writing for Slate), it's "an ordinary middle-class Quebecer who draws comics." That man is Michel Ragabliati, who, despite not leading an extraordinary life, does something very few other memoirists achieve: makes you look inside your own experiences to find the emotional congruencies between your life and his.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/michel_rabagliati_s_cartoon_memoirs_paul_joins_the_scouts_and_the_paul_books.html
A passage from Alice Munro's Friend of My Youth has been featured in this month's 'By Heart' section of The Atlantic (formerly Atlantic Monthly) magazine. In his essay for the series, Kyle Minor contests Munro's popular reputation as a mere chronicler of bounded, fiercely quiet lives.
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/02/alice-munros-writerly-wisdom-short-stories-arent-small-stories/283744
COMMUNITY EVENTS
AN EVENING WITH SOME OF VANCOUVER'S FAVOURITE QUEER WRITERS
Featuring Amber Dawn, Brett Josef Grubisic, Leah Horlick, Lydia Kwa, Alex Leslie, Emilia Nielsen and Andrea Routley with MC Carellin Brooks. Friday, February 14 at 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverobserver.com.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Celebration of Black History Month with Roger Blenman, Rosario Aria Naranjo, Diane Laloge and many more. Hosted by Ariadne Sawyer and Kagan Goh. Saturday, February 15 at 3:00pm, free. Britannia Community Centre, 1661 Napier St. More information at worldpoetry.ca.
LOVE HANGOVER
Storytelling series featuring stories of love and heartbreak, crushes and breakups, Tinder and long-distance lovers, missed connections and cheating jerks. Saturday, February 15 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $25 plus service charges. Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings, Vancouver. More information at liveatrickshaw.com.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Dennis E. Bolen, Brad Cran, Candice James with host Sho Wiley. February 16 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
PLAYING WITH FIRE
Storytelling featuring spoken word champion Bryant Ross and locals Philomena Jordan, Erin Graham and Rita Taylor. Sunday, February 16 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6. 1805 Larch, Vancouver. More information at vancouverstorytellers.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND
An evening of readings of both brand new and established local authors in a variety of genres from poetry to short stories to novels. Monday, February 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Poet Andrea McKenzie Raine reads from her debut novel, Turnstiles. Tuesday, February 18 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings at Boundary. More information at bwscafe@gmail.com.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Ray Hsu and Joanne Arnott featured at Feb 19 Lunch Poems at SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SAY WHA?
Funny people reading from bad books featuring Lauren McGibbon, Stacie Steadman, Megan Phillips and Jeff Gladstone. Wednesday, February 19 at 8:00pm. Cost: $5-10. Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at sarabynoe.com/shows/say-wha.
CHRISTINA JOHNSON-DEAN
Local author talks about her new book The Life and Art of Edythe hembroff-Schleicher. Thursday, February 20 at 7:00pm, free but register at 250-475-6100. Emily Carr branch, Victoria Public Library, 101-3521 Blanshard St. More information at gvpl.ca.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
Upcoming
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 5:00pm (corrected time). Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
TWISTED POETS LITERARY SALON
Features poet/singer/artist David Campbell. Poetry and music: A celebration. Thursday, Feb 27, 7-9:30pm, at The Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. Suggested donation at the door: $5. More information at
www.pandorascollective.com.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Book News Vol. 8 No. 49
BOOK NEWS
INCITE
Join us on February 19 for an evening of new fiction and non-fiction with Catherine Bush, Adrianne Harun and Andrew Steinmetz. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Olivia Chow
NDP MP Olivia Chow takes readers through a violent past, storied love and political career in her new memoir, My Journey. Join us for an evening with one of Canada's most compelling political forces. Ms. Chow will be interviewed by Kathryn Gretsinger. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/oliviachow.
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
Roddy Doyle
CBC and the Vancouver Writers Fest are excited to present Roddy Doyle on Wednesday, February 12 at 6:30pm. The Booker Prize winner's latest novel revisits the characters from his contemporary classic The Commitments, with the same raunchy humour and provocative social commentary. Come join in the conversation with North by Northwest's Sheryl MacKay. Doors open at 5:30pm, taping starts promptly at 6:30, at the CBC Broadcast Centre, 700 Hamilton Street, Vancouver. No reserved seating-first come, first seated. Information at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/roddydoyle.
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing was announced and includes Margaret MacMillan for The War That Ended Peace: The Road to 1914.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/afghan-war-memoir-stephen-harper-portrait-vie-for-25k-prize-1.2523177
The longlist for the world's most valuable short story prize has been announced. The Sunday Times EFG Short Story Award is worth £30,000. Canadian author Marjorie Celona has been nominated for her story, Othello.
http://www.booktrust.org.uk/prizes/5
The American Library Association has approved a new award: the Lemony Snicket Prize for Noble Librarians Faced with Adversity. The $3,000 prize recognizes a librarian who "has faced adversity with integrity and dignity intact," and will be awarded annually. The deadline for candidates to be nominated for the first year is May 1st.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/jan/31/lemony-snicket-prize-librarians-book-bans
Twenty books are in the running for the United Kingdom's oldest and most prestigious children's book award, the Carnegie medal. The shortlists will be announced on Tuesday, March 18.
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2014/feb/04/carnegie-medal-2014-longlist
The 2014 Greenaway picture book prize long list is also out. Click here for the list (pictures included!).
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2014/feb/04/greenaway-prize-longlist-2014
YOUNG READERS
Eric Walters has written 92 books since 1994, and yet has never won any of the major literary awards for children's literature in Canada. "He must have missed the memo that says authors are supposed to take years slaving away in solitude in pursuit of the perfect sentence. Eric Walters deserves a reappraisal."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/01/31/eric-walters-the-hardest-working-writer-in-canada/
NEWS & FEATURES
A new Jane Austen document has been found: a scrap of paper which contains a transcription of her brother's sermon on one side, and an imprint of other writing on its reverse.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/jane-austen-fragment-found-paper-brother
Harry Potter fans are in a state of uproar after a recent revelation by J.K. Rowling that she regrets how she ended her famous series. "Whether she'll take one fan's advice to 'rip up the last two books and start again' is unclear."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/harry-potter-fans-jk-rowling-plot-regrets
A Russian man has been stabbed to death in a dispute about poetry versus prose! "This is not the first time high-brow disputes have led to bloodshed in Russia. In September, a man was shot in a line for beer in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don after enraging a fellow beer drinker with his views about the work of Enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant."
http://en.ria.ru/crime/20140129/187015221/Russian-Man-Stabbed-to-Death-in-Poetry-Over-Prose-Dispute.html
Since September, the Guardian has been counting down the 100 best novels written in English, a 100 week-project that began with John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress. That very same book is featured in this week's selection: number 20, Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/100-best-novels-little-women-louisa-may-alcott
Who are James Joyce's modern heirs? Rivka Galchen and Pankaj Mishra discuss James Joyce's legacy today in this week's edition of the New York Times' 'Bookends'.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/02/books/review/who-are-james-joyces-modern-heirs.html
When New York Times obituary writer William McDonald found out that the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet W.D. Snodgrass was dying, it jolted him from his chair. He had interviewed him as a young man at the University of Syracuse, and was determined to interview the poet again before he died. Here is his account of their second encounter, and the lessons he learned about death, writing, and the preciousness of time.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/31/booming/knocking-once-again-on-the-poets-door.html
Be careful at your next book club meeting...the author might be there! A new service called "Book the Writer" now connects authors and book clubs, "where they spend an hour or two discussing their works with eager readers in exchange for a fee."
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/30/business/media/be-careful-at-the-book-club-the-author-might-be-there.html
The CBC has created a list of "the ten women you need to read," most of whom have previously appeared at the Writers Fest.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2014/01/10-canadian-women-you-need-to-read.html
One author on the aformentioned list, Ivan E. Coyote, has also made it onto a list of Queer Canadian books to be excited about in 2014. Her new book Gender Failure (written with Rae Spoon, based on their show of the same name) will be released on April 15th.
http://caseythecanadianlesbrarian.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/2014-queer-canadian-books-to-be-excited-about/
It's easy to dismiss sexist and racist books as products of their time. According to Noah Berlatsky, however, "dismissing the classics' shortcomings as just a reflection of the era's norms mischaracterizes history and undermines the books' very relevance."
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/01/the-product-of-its-time-defense-no-excuse-for-sexism-and-racism/283352/
BOOKS & WRITERS
This week in fiction, Zadie Smith discusses her story "Moonlit Landscape With Bridge". It takes place in an unnamed country devastated by a destructive storm. Unsurprisingly, she began writing the story right after the recent typhoon in the Philippines.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/this-week-in-fiction-zadie-smith-1.html
Philip Roth is claiming that he has no more desire to write fiction. "I did what I did and it's done." Apparently he's keener on swimming and watching baseball these days.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/04/philip-roth-no-desire-write-fiction-novelist
Claudia Renton's first book Those Wild Wyndhams is an intimate portrait of three sisters on the inside of political and cultural life in late Victorian and Edwardian Britain. "This description, together with the unnecessarily florid gold writing on the cover, may imply an entertaining romp. In fact it's something far more profound."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/those-wild-wyndhams-claudia-renton-review
While many people argue that art is universal, every once in awhile a writer comes along who defines a place so specifically that we cannot help but embrace their regionalism. Orhan Pamuk is one such writer. He talks about "his Istanbul" in this week's New York Times.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/02/travel/orhan-pamuks-istanbul.html
Back in our own backyard, the Vancouver Sun's Book Club chatted this week with Ruth Ozeki, author of the widely acclaimed A Tale for the Time Being. Check out the discussion, here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Book+Chat+Ruth+Ozeki+author+Tale+Time+Being/9463265/story.html
As more and more awareness of transgender rights and identity issues grow, it's the perfect time for the release of Kim Fu's For Today I Am a Boy. "It has become cliché to hail an exciting 'new voice' in fiction, and many are drowned out by their own hype. In so convincingly transporting her reader to a perspective still relatively new to contemporary fiction, Kim Fu should be an exception."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/for-today-i-am-a-boy-a-novel-through-the-story-of-a-transgender-chinese-canadian-child/article16638943/
In 2001, Elizabeth Spencer released a "greatest hits" roundup of her short stories and novels, called The Southern Woman. Now she's back with a new collection, Starting Over. She insists, however that she's not just a southern writer.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/elizabeth_spencer_s_collection_of_short_stories_starting_over_reviewed.html
The Atlantic Monthly's Twitter Book Club is discussing Diana Gabaldon's Outlander this month. Join the conversation, here:
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/02/1book140s-february-read-diana-gabaldons-em-outlander-em/283547/
What books should you be looking out for this February? Here's the New Yorker's list (and collection of miniature reviews):
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/books-to-watch-out-for-february-1.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CAVALCADE OF MERRIMENT
Spoken word and improvised music fundraiser. Featuring Marylee Stephenson, Sho Wiley, Dex Arizona and music by Lotus. Thursday, February 6 at 8:00pm. Admission by donation. The Kozmik Zoo, 53 W. Broadway, Vancouver. More information at vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
GRAFFITI HACK BOOK LAUNCH PARTY
Launch of Elen Ghulam's new book, Graffiti Hack: A Novel. Saturday, February 8 at 7:00pm. The Landing, 375 Water Street, Vancouver. More information at ihath.com.
AN EVENING WITH SOME OF VANCOUVER'S FAVOURITE QUEER WRITERS
Featuring Amber Dawn, Brett Josef Grubisic, Leah Horlick, Lydia Kwa, Alex Leslie, Emilia Nielsen and Andrea Routley with MC Carellin Brooks. Friday, February 14 at 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverobserver.com.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Celebration of Black History Month with Roger Blenman, Rosario Aria Naranjo, Diane Laloge and many more. Hosted by Ariadne Sawyer and Kagan Goh. Saturday, February 15 at 3:00pm, free. Britannia Community Centre, 1661 Napier St. More information at worldpoetry.ca.
LOVE HANGOVER
Storytelling series featuring stories of love and heartbreak, crushes and breakups, Tinder and long-distance lovers, missed connections and cheating jerks. Saturday, February 15 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $25 plus service charges. Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings, Vancouver. More information at liveatrickshaw.com.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Dennis E. Bolen, Brad Cran, Candice James with host Sho Wiley. February 16 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
PLAYING WITH FIRE
Storytelling featuring spoken word champion Bryant Ross and locals Philomena Jordan, Erin Graham and Rita Taylor. Sunday, February 16 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6. 1805 Larch, Vancouver. More information at vancouverstorytellers.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND
An evening of readings of both brand new and established local authors in a variety of genres from poetry to short stories to novels. Monday, February 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Poet Andrea McKenzie Raine reads from her debut novel, Turnstiles. Tuesday, February 18 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings at Boundary. More information at bwscafe@gmail.com.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Ray Hsu and Joanne Arnott featured at Feb 19 Lunch Poems at SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SAY WHA?
Funny people reading from bad books featuring Lauren McGibbon, Stacie Steadman, Megan Phillips and Jeff Gladstone. Wednesday, February 19 at 8:00pm. Cost: $5-10. Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at sarabynoe.com/shows/say-wha.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
Upcoming
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 6:30pm. Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
PIERRE SAMSON
Meet with the writer Pierre Samson, author of "La maison des pluies". Friday, March 7 at 5:30pm. Alliance Francaise Auditorium, Alliance Francaise, 6161 Cambie Street, Vancouver. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THEY WENT WHISTLING
In celebration of International Women's Day, authors Sylvia Taylor, Kate Braid, Jane Hall and Sue Doro read from their memoirs. Saturday, March 8 at 2:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS: NEW CANADIAN READINGS
Readings by Natalie Simpson and Jonathan Ball. Wednesday, March 19 at 5:00pm. Piano Lounge, Green College, 6201 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
SERENDIPITY: CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN A DIGITAL AGE
From practical advice on using literature-based apps with children to learning how authors and illustrators are using social media and electronic publishing, Serendipity 2014 is for educators, librarians, researchers and literature lovers looking to the future of books for young people. Our presenters include Paul Zelinsky, Arthur Slade, John Schumacher, Travis Jonker, Tim Federle, and Hadley Dyer. Saturday, March 8, 2014. For registration and information, go to www.vclr.ca.
F.G. BRESSANI LITERARY PRIZE
IL CENTRO Italian Cultural Centre is thrilled to announce the publication of the Rules & Regulations for the 2014 Edition of the F.G. Bressani Literary Prize. The literary prize honours and promotes the work of Canadian writers of Italian origin or Italian descent. Deadline: April 2, 2014. Complete details can be found here: http://italianculturalcentre.ca/blog/bressani-literary-prize/.
ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT
The Iceland Writers Retreat invites published and aspiring book writers (fiction and non-fiction) to participate in a series of workshops and panels led by a team of international writers from April 9-13, 2014 including Joseph Boyden. Between intimate workshops and lectures tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafés of Reykjavik, soak in hot geothermal pools, listen to new Icelandic music, and learn about the country's rich literary tradition. More information at www.IcelandWritersRetreat.com.
SKAGIT RIVER POETRY FESTIVAL
A celebration of poetry featuring readings, workshops, and storytelling. Access to internationally famous poets through intimate venues and workshop sessions. May 15-18, 2014. Various venues throughout La Conner, WA. Tickets on sale in January. More information at www.skagitriverpoetry.org.
INCITE
Join us on February 19 for an evening of new fiction and non-fiction with Catherine Bush, Adrianne Harun and Andrew Steinmetz. Details on this and other upcoming Incite events here, http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/incite.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Olivia Chow
NDP MP Olivia Chow takes readers through a violent past, storied love and political career in her new memoir, My Journey. Join us for an evening with one of Canada's most compelling political forces. Ms. Chow will be interviewed by Kathryn Gretsinger. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/oliviachow.
Miriam Toews and Steven Galloway
An evening with two acclaimed Canadian authors. Steven Galloway, the bestselling author of The Cellist of Sarajevo, is back with his brilliant new novel, The Confabulist. And Miriam Toews, the award-winning author of A Complicated Kindness, brings her irresistible voice and heart wrenching poignancy to her new novel All My Puny Sorrows. Click here for event details and to find out more about our special offer for bookclubs: http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/gallowaytoews.
Roddy Doyle
CBC and the Vancouver Writers Fest are excited to present Roddy Doyle on Wednesday, February 12 at 6:30pm. The Booker Prize winner's latest novel revisits the characters from his contemporary classic The Commitments, with the same raunchy humour and provocative social commentary. Come join in the conversation with North by Northwest's Sheryl MacKay. Doors open at 5:30pm, taping starts promptly at 6:30, at the CBC Broadcast Centre, 700 Hamilton Street, Vancouver. No reserved seating-first come, first seated. Information at http://www.writersfest.bc.ca/events/roddydoyle.
AWARDS & LISTS
The shortlist for the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing was announced and includes Margaret MacMillan for The War That Ended Peace: The Road to 1914.
http://www.cbc.ca/news/arts/afghan-war-memoir-stephen-harper-portrait-vie-for-25k-prize-1.2523177
The longlist for the world's most valuable short story prize has been announced. The Sunday Times EFG Short Story Award is worth £30,000. Canadian author Marjorie Celona has been nominated for her story, Othello.
http://www.booktrust.org.uk/prizes/5
The American Library Association has approved a new award: the Lemony Snicket Prize for Noble Librarians Faced with Adversity. The $3,000 prize recognizes a librarian who "has faced adversity with integrity and dignity intact," and will be awarded annually. The deadline for candidates to be nominated for the first year is May 1st.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/jan/31/lemony-snicket-prize-librarians-book-bans
Twenty books are in the running for the United Kingdom's oldest and most prestigious children's book award, the Carnegie medal. The shortlists will be announced on Tuesday, March 18.
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/2014/feb/04/carnegie-medal-2014-longlist
The 2014 Greenaway picture book prize long list is also out. Click here for the list (pictures included!).
http://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2014/feb/04/greenaway-prize-longlist-2014
YOUNG READERS
Eric Walters has written 92 books since 1994, and yet has never won any of the major literary awards for children's literature in Canada. "He must have missed the memo that says authors are supposed to take years slaving away in solitude in pursuit of the perfect sentence. Eric Walters deserves a reappraisal."
http://arts.nationalpost.com/2014/01/31/eric-walters-the-hardest-working-writer-in-canada/
NEWS & FEATURES
A new Jane Austen document has been found: a scrap of paper which contains a transcription of her brother's sermon on one side, and an imprint of other writing on its reverse.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/jane-austen-fragment-found-paper-brother
Harry Potter fans are in a state of uproar after a recent revelation by J.K. Rowling that she regrets how she ended her famous series. "Whether she'll take one fan's advice to 'rip up the last two books and start again' is unclear."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/harry-potter-fans-jk-rowling-plot-regrets
A Russian man has been stabbed to death in a dispute about poetry versus prose! "This is not the first time high-brow disputes have led to bloodshed in Russia. In September, a man was shot in a line for beer in the southern city of Rostov-on-Don after enraging a fellow beer drinker with his views about the work of Enlightenment philosopher Immanuel Kant."
http://en.ria.ru/crime/20140129/187015221/Russian-Man-Stabbed-to-Death-in-Poetry-Over-Prose-Dispute.html
Since September, the Guardian has been counting down the 100 best novels written in English, a 100 week-project that began with John Bunyan's The Pilgrim's Progress. That very same book is featured in this week's selection: number 20, Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/100-best-novels-little-women-louisa-may-alcott
Who are James Joyce's modern heirs? Rivka Galchen and Pankaj Mishra discuss James Joyce's legacy today in this week's edition of the New York Times' 'Bookends'.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/02/books/review/who-are-james-joyces-modern-heirs.html
When New York Times obituary writer William McDonald found out that the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet W.D. Snodgrass was dying, it jolted him from his chair. He had interviewed him as a young man at the University of Syracuse, and was determined to interview the poet again before he died. Here is his account of their second encounter, and the lessons he learned about death, writing, and the preciousness of time.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/31/booming/knocking-once-again-on-the-poets-door.html
Be careful at your next book club meeting...the author might be there! A new service called "Book the Writer" now connects authors and book clubs, "where they spend an hour or two discussing their works with eager readers in exchange for a fee."
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/01/30/business/media/be-careful-at-the-book-club-the-author-might-be-there.html
The CBC has created a list of "the ten women you need to read," most of whom have previously appeared at the Writers Fest.
http://www.cbc.ca/books/2014/01/10-canadian-women-you-need-to-read.html
One author on the aformentioned list, Ivan E. Coyote, has also made it onto a list of Queer Canadian books to be excited about in 2014. Her new book Gender Failure (written with Rae Spoon, based on their show of the same name) will be released on April 15th.
http://caseythecanadianlesbrarian.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/2014-queer-canadian-books-to-be-excited-about/
It's easy to dismiss sexist and racist books as products of their time. According to Noah Berlatsky, however, "dismissing the classics' shortcomings as just a reflection of the era's norms mischaracterizes history and undermines the books' very relevance."
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/01/the-product-of-its-time-defense-no-excuse-for-sexism-and-racism/283352/
BOOKS & WRITERS
This week in fiction, Zadie Smith discusses her story "Moonlit Landscape With Bridge". It takes place in an unnamed country devastated by a destructive storm. Unsurprisingly, she began writing the story right after the recent typhoon in the Philippines.
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/this-week-in-fiction-zadie-smith-1.html
Philip Roth is claiming that he has no more desire to write fiction. "I did what I did and it's done." Apparently he's keener on swimming and watching baseball these days.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/04/philip-roth-no-desire-write-fiction-novelist
Claudia Renton's first book Those Wild Wyndhams is an intimate portrait of three sisters on the inside of political and cultural life in late Victorian and Edwardian Britain. "This description, together with the unnecessarily florid gold writing on the cover, may imply an entertaining romp. In fact it's something far more profound."
http://www.theguardian.com/books/2014/feb/03/those-wild-wyndhams-claudia-renton-review
While many people argue that art is universal, every once in awhile a writer comes along who defines a place so specifically that we cannot help but embrace their regionalism. Orhan Pamuk is one such writer. He talks about "his Istanbul" in this week's New York Times.
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/02/02/travel/orhan-pamuks-istanbul.html
Back in our own backyard, the Vancouver Sun's Book Club chatted this week with Ruth Ozeki, author of the widely acclaimed A Tale for the Time Being. Check out the discussion, here:
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Book+Chat+Ruth+Ozeki+author+Tale+Time+Being/9463265/story.html
As more and more awareness of transgender rights and identity issues grow, it's the perfect time for the release of Kim Fu's For Today I Am a Boy. "It has become cliché to hail an exciting 'new voice' in fiction, and many are drowned out by their own hype. In so convincingly transporting her reader to a perspective still relatively new to contemporary fiction, Kim Fu should be an exception."
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/arts/books-and-media/book-reviews/for-today-i-am-a-boy-a-novel-through-the-story-of-a-transgender-chinese-canadian-child/article16638943/
In 2001, Elizabeth Spencer released a "greatest hits" roundup of her short stories and novels, called The Southern Woman. Now she's back with a new collection, Starting Over. She insists, however that she's not just a southern writer.
http://www.slate.com/articles/arts/books/2014/02/elizabeth_spencer_s_collection_of_short_stories_starting_over_reviewed.html
The Atlantic Monthly's Twitter Book Club is discussing Diana Gabaldon's Outlander this month. Join the conversation, here:
http://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2014/02/1book140s-february-read-diana-gabaldons-em-outlander-em/283547/
What books should you be looking out for this February? Here's the New Yorker's list (and collection of miniature reviews):
http://www.newyorker.com/online/blogs/books/2014/02/books-to-watch-out-for-february-1.html
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CAVALCADE OF MERRIMENT
Spoken word and improvised music fundraiser. Featuring Marylee Stephenson, Sho Wiley, Dex Arizona and music by Lotus. Thursday, February 6 at 8:00pm. Admission by donation. The Kozmik Zoo, 53 W. Broadway, Vancouver. More information at vancouverpoetryhouse.com.
GRAFFITI HACK BOOK LAUNCH PARTY
Launch of Elen Ghulam's new book, Graffiti Hack: A Novel. Saturday, February 8 at 7:00pm. The Landing, 375 Water Street, Vancouver. More information at ihath.com.
AN EVENING WITH SOME OF VANCOUVER'S FAVOURITE QUEER WRITERS
Featuring Amber Dawn, Brett Josef Grubisic, Leah Horlick, Lydia Kwa, Alex Leslie, Emilia Nielsen and Andrea Routley with MC Carellin Brooks. Friday, February 14 at 9:00pm. Cost: $10. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at vancouverobserver.com.
WORLD POETRY VANCOUVER
Celebration of Black History Month with Roger Blenman, Rosario Aria Naranjo, Diane Laloge and many more. Hosted by Ariadne Sawyer and Kagan Goh. Saturday, February 15 at 3:00pm, free. Britannia Community Centre, 1661 Napier St. More information at worldpoetry.ca.
LOVE HANGOVER
Storytelling series featuring stories of love and heartbreak, crushes and breakups, Tinder and long-distance lovers, missed connections and cheating jerks. Saturday, February 15 at 7:30pm. Tickets: $25 plus service charges. Rickshaw Theatre, 254 E. Hastings, Vancouver. More information at liveatrickshaw.com.
POETIC JUSTICE
Featuring Dennis E. Bolen, Brad Cran, Candice James with host Sho Wiley. February 16 at 3:00pm. The Heritage Grill, 447 Columbia Street, New Westminster. More information at poeticjustice.ca.
PLAYING WITH FIRE
Storytelling featuring spoken word champion Bryant Ross and locals Philomena Jordan, Erin Graham and Rita Taylor. Sunday, February 16 at 7:00pm. Cost: $6. 1805 Larch, Vancouver. More information at vancouverstorytellers.ca.
AUTHORS UNBOUND
An evening of readings of both brand new and established local authors in a variety of genres from poetry to short stories to novels. Monday, February 17 at 7:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia Street. More information at vpl.ca.
SPOKEN INK
Poet Andrea McKenzie Raine reads from her debut novel, Turnstiles. Tuesday, February 18 at 8:00pm. La Fontana Caffe, 101-3701 East Hastings at Boundary. More information at bwscafe@gmail.com.
LUNCH POEMS AT SFU
Ray Hsu and Joanne Arnott featured at Feb 19 Lunch Poems at SFU. Presented by SFU Public Square, 12-1pm in SFU Harbour Centre's Teck Gallery (515 W Hastings St.). Free admission, no registration required. For more information visit www.sfu.ca/publicsquare/lunchpoems.
SAY WHA?
Funny people reading from bad books featuring Lauren McGibbon, Stacie Steadman, Megan Phillips and Jeff Gladstone. Wednesday, February 19 at 8:00pm. Cost: $5-10. Cottage Bistro, 4468 Main Street, Vancouver. More information at sarabynoe.com/shows/say-wha.
WORDSTHAW
Second annual symposium featuring 38 poets, novelists, short story writers and journalists. Landsdowne Lecture will feature Vancouver poet, novelist and librettist Daphne Marlatt. February 20-22, 2014. University of Victoria, Victoria, BC. More information at malahatreview.ca.
FROM TALKING STICK TO MICROPHONE
A selection of Canada's best independent musicians and slam poets. Hosted by Zaccheus Jackson. Friday, February 21 at 8:00pm, pay what you can. Cafe Deux Soleils, 2096 Commercial Drive, Vancouver. More information at fullcircle.ca.
GALIANO ISLAND LITERARY FESTIVAL
5th annual festival featuring Dina Del Bucchia, Bev Sellars, George Bowering, and others. February 21-23, 2014 at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa, Galiano Island. More information at galianoliteraryfestival.com.
Upcoming
ALMOST CRIMINAL
Vancouver writer E.R. Brown reads from his first novel, Almost Criminal, a BC-based crime thriller. Wednesday, February 26 at 7:00pm. Welsh Hall West, West Vancouver Memorial Library, 1950 Marine Drive, West Vancouver. For more information, phone 604-925-7403.
REWILDING VANCOUVER
Author J.B. MacKinnon discusses his latest book The Once and Future World. Thursday, February 27 at 6:30pm. Cecil Green Park House, 6251 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
RECONCILIATION THROUGH POETRY
Five diverse poets will unveil newly commissioned work exploring the concept of reconciliation in honour of Chief Robert Joseph. Featuring poets Jordan Abel, Joanne Arnott, Juliane Okot Bitek, Jordan Scott and Daniel Zomparelli. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
RED GIRL RAT BOY
Vancouver author Cynthia Flood reads from her latest book. Thursday, February 27 at 7:00pm, free. McGill branch, Burnaby Public Library, 4595 Albert Street, Burnaby. More information and registration at 604-299-8955 or bpl.bc.ca.
VEENA GOKHALE
Reading by Montreal-based author. Special guest poet and writer Rahat Kurd. Friday, February 28 at 12:00pm, free. Alma VanDusen room, lower level, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
NORTHERN LIGHTS
An evening celebrating Northern writers and artists featuring readings from Sanaaq, the first novel written in Inuktituk and recently translated into English; and a screening of the short film Amaqqut Nunaat: Country of Wolves. Friday, February 28 at 7:00pm, pay what you can. Djavad Mowafaghian World Arts Centre, 149 W. Hastings St. More information at fullcircle.ca.
PIERRE SAMSON
Meet with the writer Pierre Samson, author of "La maison des pluies". Friday, March 7 at 5:30pm. Alliance Francaise Auditorium, Alliance Francaise, 6161 Cambie Street, Vancouver. More information at alliancefrancaise.ca.
THEY WENT WHISTLING
In celebration of International Women's Day, authors Sylvia Taylor, Kate Braid, Jane Hall and Sue Doro read from their memoirs. Saturday, March 8 at 2:00pm, free. Alice MacKay room, Central Library, 350 W. Georgia St. More information at vpl.ca.
PLAY CHTHONICS: NEW CANADIAN READINGS
Readings by Natalie Simpson and Jonathan Ball. Wednesday, March 19 at 5:00pm. Piano Lounge, Green College, 6201 Cecil Green Park Road, UBC. More information at greencollege.ubc.ca.
SERENDIPITY: CHILDREN'S LITERATURE IN A DIGITAL AGE
From practical advice on using literature-based apps with children to learning how authors and illustrators are using social media and electronic publishing, Serendipity 2014 is for educators, librarians, researchers and literature lovers looking to the future of books for young people. Our presenters include Paul Zelinsky, Arthur Slade, John Schumacher, Travis Jonker, Tim Federle, and Hadley Dyer. Saturday, March 8, 2014. For registration and information, go to www.vclr.ca.
F.G. BRESSANI LITERARY PRIZE
IL CENTRO Italian Cultural Centre is thrilled to announce the publication of the Rules & Regulations for the 2014 Edition of the F.G. Bressani Literary Prize. The literary prize honours and promotes the work of Canadian writers of Italian origin or Italian descent. Deadline: April 2, 2014. Complete details can be found here: http://italianculturalcentre.ca/blog/bressani-literary-prize/.
ICELAND WRITERS RETREAT
The Iceland Writers Retreat invites published and aspiring book writers (fiction and non-fiction) to participate in a series of workshops and panels led by a team of international writers from April 9-13, 2014 including Joseph Boyden. Between intimate workshops and lectures tour the spectacular Golden Circle, sit in the cozy cafés of Reykjavik, soak in hot geothermal pools, listen to new Icelandic music, and learn about the country's rich literary tradition. More information at www.IcelandWritersRetreat.com.
SKAGIT RIVER POETRY FESTIVAL
A celebration of poetry featuring readings, workshops, and storytelling. Access to internationally famous poets through intimate venues and workshop sessions. May 15-18, 2014. Various venues throughout La Conner, WA. Tickets on sale in January. More information at www.skagitriverpoetry.org.
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